Key Features

• Universal Connection: BDFS can connect to various data storage systems, making them available to the backup system. These systems can be local (like FC, iSCSI), remote (like NFS, CIFS, SSHFS) or in the cloud (like Amazon, Google, Azure).
• Centralized Backup: BDFS creates a unified access point for backup, the "merged_directory". Files from all sources are copied or moved into this directory, simplifying backup procedures and reducing the need for complex backup software.
• User Transparency: Users continue to access and use their files normally, even if they have been moved to the "merged_directory" for backup. BDFS makes the backup process transparent, without interrupting user workflow.
• Advanced Management: BDFS allows you to define specific rules for each data source, enabling granular control over the backup process (for example, you can set rules to copy only files older than 30 days).
• Efficiency and Savings: By using BDFS, you can reduce costs associated with backup software, as complex systems are not necessary; a simple tape writing system may suffice. Furthermore, BDFS helps free up space on user systems by moving files to the "merged_directory".
• Scalability: BDFS is designed to manage large volumes of data, up to 450PB.
• Compatibility: BDFS has been tested with major storage systems, both tape and disk based.

Architecture

BDFS consists of a daemon that manages backup operations and various utilities that serve to manage the operations performed by the daemon. All operations performed by the daemon are monitored by a series of commands that allow granular control of copying activities.

BDFS can copy or move files from systems to be secured without the use of agents to be installed on remote servers; it simply uses standard protocols already available in various operating systems.

Merged Directory and BDFS Structure

The merged directory is a BDFS feature that allows the end user to continue seeing their files even if they have been moved by BDFS to dedicated archive storage.

In BDFS, we have a structure like this:

• Target: The remote server on which to perform the backup. We can have multiple targets per single server.
• Remote directory: The directory on the remote server to copy or move.
• Local Directory: The BDFS directory from which long-term storage systems will then retrieve the files.
• Merged directory: A virtual directory formed by the Remote directory plus the Local directory, which the user can access to see all their files, even if they have been moved from their computer, and work with them normally. Files that have been moved to the local directory will be viewed in RW or RO depending on how the merged directory is defined; by default, the system does not allow modification of files on the user's remote directory.

Conclusion

In conclusion, BDFS presents itself as a powerful and versatile backup solution, designed to simplify data management in IT environments of all sizes. Its ability to integrate with various existing infrastructures and centralize backup operations makes it a valuable tool for companies seeking efficiency and reliability in protecting their data.

Through features such as the "merged_directory," BDFS ensures transparency of the backup process for the end user, minimizing operational interruptions. Advanced automation, made possible by the definition of granular rules, further optimizes workflow, ensuring that critical data is always protected according to specific business needs.

The scalability of BDFS, combined with its compatibility with a wide range of storage systems, makes it a suitable choice for growing companies that need a backup solution capable of adapting to their future needs. With BDFS, organizations can not only effectively protect their digital assets but also optimize the costs and resources associated with backup management.